Four Square locals back Aotearoa's best beaches

Pictured: Four Square Mount Maunganui owners Tania and Sasa Overend

Four Square locals back Aotearoa's best beaches

From golden sands and rolling surf to hidden coves and fish and chips on the beach at sunset, Aotearoa New Zealand’s most loved beaches have been named. 

In the 2026 NZ Herald Best Beaches competition, readers voted for their favourite beaches around New Zealand.  

Waipū Cove in Northland has been crowned as Overall Best Beach, with nearby Langs Beach taking out Best Hidden Gem. Other favourites included Mount Maunganui (Best City Beach), Manu Bay, Raglan (Best Surf Beach) and Kaiteriteri (Best Family Beach). 

For the local family-owned Four Square stores and teams who live and work in these communities, the recognition feels deeply personal; where there’s a great beach, there’s often a Four Square store nearby.  

Waipū Cove: best beach in the country 

Just eight kilometres east of Waipū, Waipū Cove has won over hearts with its sweeping golden sand, rockpools, rolling waves and relaxed camping vibe. It’s a beach locals return to again and again. 

Four Square Waipū store co-owner Amrith Brijlal says the win reflects what locals have always known.  “This beach has everything – space, scenery, surf, walks and that real Kiwi summer feel. We’re lucky to have it right on our doorstep.” 

Store owner Lisa Amiri agrees, saying the warmth of the area extends beyond the water.  “The people here are so welcoming. At Christmas, we’ll take fish and chips down to the beach with our staff. Sometimes, after a busy day instore, we’ll head there for lunch or a swim. It’s a big part of our lives.” 

Supervisor Claire Boakes grew up with Waipū Cove as part of her childhood routine. 

“Fish and chips at the beach, stopping at Four Square for snacks and drinks, strawberries and chocolate – those are some good memories. Sometimes, if you’re lucky you’ll even spot dolphins. It’s a really special place.” 

Langs Beach: the hidden gem locals treasure 

Just down from Waipū Cove, Langs Beach has been voted Best Hidden Gem – a quieter, postcard-perfect stretch of white sand tucked away from the main roads and shops. Four Square Mangawhai Heads owner Hamish Townshend says that’s exactly the appeal.  “It’s a destination. No shops, no rush – just stunning scenery and a real sense of escape. It’s calm, safe and beautiful every single time.” 

For those in the area, the Mangawhai Cliffs coastal walk, which is part of the Te Araroa Trail, is spectacular and a favourite among locals and visitors, he says. 

Beaches that define their communities 

Further south, Four Square stores are equally proud to be part of New Zealand’s most iconic coastal towns. 

At Mount Maunganui, Four Square owner Sasa Overend says the beach is the hub of the community over summer.  “It’s active, outdoorsy and full of life – from surfing, swimming and walks to sunsets with fish and chips. We’re stoked to be part of a place people love coming back to.” 

In Raglan, where Manu Bay has been recognised as Best Surf Beach and welcomed onto the World Surf League Championship Tour, Four Square Raglan owner Satnam Bains says the beach brings people together.  “People travel from all over the world for the left-hand [point] break. It’s iconic, and it’s great recognition for the town. The beach is welcoming – just like the community.” 

In the South Island, Kaiteriteri has been named as Best Family Beach in New Zealand, drawing generations of families to its sheltered bays and golden sands.  Four Square Māpua owner Shaun McFadden says: “It’s the gateway to Abel Tasman and the best beach full stop. Camping, kayaking, ice creams – it’s the full Kiwi summer experience.” 

A part of the beach day ritual 

Across the country, Four Square stores play a familiar role in beach life – the convenient first or last stop on the way to the beach for sunscreen, cold drinks, snacks, bread rolls, and ice creams. 

“The beaches we have here are just beautiful,” says Amrith Brijlal. “And we always look forward to welcoming and looking after everyone who comes our way to enjoy the beach and the outdoors every summer.”